Marine Conservation

The people of the Cayman Islands understand the importance of maintaining a healthy underwater environment and have taken great care to preserve
the treasures of the deep for future generations.

To that end, they have developed a series of environmental laws that will help ensure the sustainability of their natural environment. By working together to protect the environment and committing to conservation, everyone will benefit – both today and for generations to come. Below is a brief summary of the Marine Conservation Laws in the Cayman Islands:

Damaging coral by anchor, chains or any other means ANYWHERE in Cayman waters is prohibited.

No taking of ANY marine life – alive or dead.

No taking of any coral, sponges, etc. from Cayman waters.

Wearing gloves while diving or snorkelling in Cayman waters is prohibited.

Export of live fish or other marine life is prohibited.

Fishing with gill nets, poison or other noxious substances is prohibited.

Dumping ANYTHING in Cayman waters is prohibited.

The export of conch shells and or black coral requires a special permit, issued through the Department of the Environment.